The “cur” is a “jack-of-all-trades working dog, and early on, was considered to be a type rather than a breed. Over time, the dog evolved into breeds, as the cur was bred for particular traits to better suit it to certain jobs, climates and conditions.

Many of us recognize that the word “cur” can carry a derogative meaning when applied to a certain type of person, and the reason for this can be traced back to the dog’s early ancestry. The Celts are credited with the introduction of the cur dog over 2500 years ago. Between 500 and 100 BC they entered the lands of the British Isles, bringing their livestock and dogs with them. After William the Conqueror invaded Britain in 1066, his men took particular pleasure in deriding anything British, including its dogs. Thus “cur” became an insult meaning mutt or mongrel.

Still, the curs’ owners valued their dogs, and when some of the adventurous Brits immigrated to America, they brought their treasured dogs with them. Many of these early Americans settled in obscure, rustic areas of the South, where the cur flourished and continued to be invaluable to its owner by herding, hunting and guarding both family and livestock.

This versatility led to specific lines specializing in certain jobs, and developing over many generations. In addition to the Black Mouth Cur (which incidentally does not always have a black mask), are the Mountain Cur, Blue Lacy (our Texas state dog), Treeing Cur, Canadian Cur, and the Catahoula Cur (now known as the Louisiana Catahoula Leopard Dog), among others.

The Black Mouth Cur as we know it is truly a Southern dog bred to multi-task, and Tom is a handsome, loveable representative of the breed. He is current on immunizations, neutered, and micro-chipped for identification. Please call to arrange a meeting with Tom. You will not be disappointed. Call Bill or Beth at 936-377-4049 or 281-229-8830.